<b>Brand-deal negotiation checklist (run before every call)</b>

<b>Brand-deal negotiation checklist (run before every call)</b>

Negotiation is preparation, not charisma. Fill this out first.

<b>Know your three numbers:</b>
— Anchor (rate card list)
— Target (where a good deal lands)
— Floor (below this you walk, no exceptions)

<b>Trade, never just discount. If they push on price, you ask for:</b>
— Longer usage window in exchange for the discount
— A multi-post commit instead of one-off
— Faster payment terms (net-15 not net-60)
— Approval to use the brand's name as a case study

<b>Red flags that change your floor:</b>
— 'Exposure' offered as part of payment → floor goes up, not down
— Perpetual usage rights requested → add 40% or decline
— Net-90 terms → add a late-payment clause or walk

<b>Close the loop:</b>
Nothing is real until it's in writing. Deliverables, dates, usage scope, kill fee, payment terms.

<b>Checklist:</b> three numbers set, two trades ready, red flags scanned, terms confirmed in writing. If any box is empty, you're not ready for the call.